Disposable diaper manufacturers use chemical polymer crystals to absorb wetness. These crystals (the same that can cause toxic-shock-syndrome) absorb up to one hundred times their weight in liquid, turning it into gel. Not only do these crystals absorb urine, they also take the needed moisture from baby's delicate skin. There is concern about the migration of chemicals from disposable diapers to reproductive organs. The long-term effects of most of these chemicals have not been tested.

The impermeable plastic barrier in disposables cannot breathe and can raise a baby's skin temperature to dangerous levels. ABC News reported on studies that found the increase in baby's temperature of plastic vs. cotton diapers may cause lower sperm counts and aid in the increase of infertility problems.

Along with the risks of constantly exposing your baby to the perfumes, bleaching agents and chemicals there are ecological reasons to use cloth diapers too. In this country alone, we throw over eighteen billion disposable diapers annually into our quickly disappearing landfills. That is 4,275,000 tons of hazardous waste every year that will remain for the next five centuries, because disposables are not biodegradable. Using cloth diapers will allow human waste to be disposed of properly through the sewage system vs. out in open landfills where more than eighty-million pounds of fecal matter are put each year. More than one hundred viruses have been found surviving in trashed disposables. We are destroying approximately 250,000 trees every year and use 100,000 tons of plastic to make single-use diapers. Cotton diapers are durable, washable, and reusable. Even after you no longer diaper baby, you can find other uses for them such as dusting.

Speaking from your pocket -- compare these average costs:

Disposables $90/month (10/day x 30 cents each)

Diaper service and Covers $68/month ($14/week + $12 for covers)

Home Laundry and Covers $37/month

Assumptions: 4 dozen diapers for 30 months use at $54 a dozen
1 load of wash 3 times/week @ $1.50 load plus soap 24 covers for 30 month at $15 each.


Different sizes and brands vary in price. This assumes the use of very breathable and durable diapers and covers.

Although, I believe this information shows the benefits of cloth diapering, choosing cloth is a personal family decision. There is no right or wrong decision. As long as you follow your heart and do what is best for your family. Like so many other parenting decisions, each family must evaluate what works for them and go with their hearts.